The former US Open champion leads the DP World Tour Championship by a single shot ahead of today’s fascinating final round.

Rose was a distant 10th on the money list until earning 2.3 million points with back-to-back wins in China and Turkey and a third straight victory in Dubai would see him crowned European No.1 for a second time.

He carded a third round of 65 to move to 15 under par, a shot ahead of playing partner Jon Rahm and South Africa’s Dylan Frittelli.

Current Race to Dubai leader Tommy Fleetwood overcame a slow start to match Rose’s score and he lurks just two behind alongside Dean Burmester and Kiradech Aphibarnrat.

An excited Rose, who made a crucial par save on the 18th after his approach found the water in front of the green, said: “You couldn’t have scripted it much better.

“Tommy’s last two rounds have been incredible and he is right there should I make any kind of mistake.

Meet Sergio Garcia's fiancee Angela Akins

SERGIO GARCIA is not only a winner in golf but also in love.

1 / 11

Instagram

“You couldn’t have scripted it much better”

Justin Rose

“He’s doing everything he has to and I’m doing the same, it’s perfectly set up.”

Fleetwood has recovered bravely from an opening 73 with consecutive rounds of 65 and yesterday’s effort included eight birdies in his last 11 holes.

The Southport ace said: “I’ll be gutted if I don’t win but made up for Justin.

“It’s been an absolute pleasure trying to win the Race to Dubai during these last few weeks.

“It’s a massive thing, the biggest thing I’ve ever tried to achieve.”

Should Rose finish in solo second, Fleetwood would have to win to claim the Harry Vardon Trophy, with a host of permutations in play as long as Rose finishes in the top five.